Also worked for Audi and have owned Q5 and SQ5. Battery is definitely in the rear and that’s why he didn’t have enough wire to run it up front. Because it’s not there.
Thanks man. I figured out the problem. It turns out that there is a switch in the scuff plate. Despite having the rear gate closed, without the scuff plate and the switch ... the tail lights don't work! With the scuff plate in place (and plugged in) everything works the way it is supposed to.
Just an FYI. Aftermarket hitch wiring is problematic on VAG vehicles because these cars are highly advanced and they’ll try to fight the trailer. ESC, ABS, etc... .. Audi makes factory hitch wiring which enables tow mode so all these systems work in harmony with a trailer. Also kicks on the cooling fans when towing. If you’re doing light towing it’s fine, but if you’re going to be doing serious towing then it’s best to have the factory wiring.
I can definitely agree to that, this is just a way easier/ cheaper way to install but the factory system definitely is more intergraded and works better
Ehhh I would try it local on a small trip and see I didn’t mind the 400 mile trip I towed just be mindful it’s under a lot more stress and braking and handling are affected a decent bit
Weston, I am installing that very same harness on my 2105 Q5. I pretty much did exactly what you did, except I grounded to one of the factory studs. Now the tail gate lights don't work at all (with the tail gate closed) but the ones on the bumper are working instead. I tried unplugging the harness and putting the factory plugs back in but they still do not work. my maim tail lights have gone dark! Any ideas on how to resolve this issue?
Just wanted to update , I also forgot to plug in the sensor in the scuff board. Once I did it still didn't work so I was confused, but once I actually started the vehicle it reset and now tailights are working just fine , as well as the harness!
I like this video is a much Better job; than the video from Etrailer . but is only a 4 pin i like to know how to install a 7 pin. the audi q5 have a connector under the dash board for a Brake controller any advice ;plz .head me up
Hey bud, the battery was right under your nose. It’s under the spare wheel lol. That’s why the power wire is short. =)
My cars the battery is under the hood. Not sure if some models have it there instead but mine definitely does not lol
In all my years working for Audi, I have never seen that on a B8 or B8.5 Q5/SQ5. Maybe yours is special.
i have to say this job is better than etrailer video lol w the friking cable hanging from the rear door rofl
Also worked for Audi and have owned Q5 and SQ5. Battery is definitely in the rear and that’s why he didn’t have enough wire to run it up front. Because it’s not there.
I am have to admit I was wrong 😅 battery is right there next to the spare wheel..
Thanks man. I figured out the problem. It turns out that there is a switch in the scuff plate. Despite having the rear gate closed, without the scuff plate and the switch ... the tail lights don't work! With the scuff plate in place (and plugged in) everything works the way it is supposed to.
Glad you figured it out!
Good tip on closing the trunk.
Dangerous that the lights go off when you open the hatch (at night). But as long as you're aware of it.
You ran the wire past the battery! It's under the spare tire.
Just an FYI. Aftermarket hitch wiring is problematic on VAG vehicles because these cars are highly advanced and they’ll try to fight the trailer. ESC, ABS, etc... .. Audi makes factory hitch wiring which enables tow mode so all these systems work in harmony with a trailer. Also kicks on the cooling fans when towing. If you’re doing light towing it’s fine, but if you’re going to be doing serious towing then it’s best to have the factory wiring.
I can definitely agree to that, this is just a way easier/ cheaper way to install but the factory system definitely is more intergraded and works better
I have a question 🙋🏽♂️ I want to tow my B5 S4....is that considered light or heavy towing?
That is heavy I’ve towed a B5s4 with mine but keep in mind the car is roughly 3600 pounds and a open deck trailer is 1400- 2000 pounds
@@westonlieberum1 Will 900 miles be to much on the vehicle?
Ehhh I would try it local on a small trip and see I didn’t mind the 400 mile trip I towed just be mindful it’s under a lot more stress and braking and handling are affected a decent bit
Weston, I am installing that very same harness on my 2105 Q5. I pretty much did exactly what you did, except I grounded to one of the factory studs. Now the tail gate lights don't work at all (with the tail gate closed) but the ones on the bumper are working instead. I tried unplugging the harness and putting the factory plugs back in but they still do not work. my maim tail lights have gone dark! Any ideas on how to resolve this issue?
I would get out the multimeter at that point and see if you gettin power before the adaptor harness
Hey Tim did you ever figure it out? This is exactly what is happening to mine
Just wanted to update , I also forgot to plug in the sensor in the scuff board. Once I did it still didn't work so I was confused, but once I actually started the vehicle it reset and now tailights are working just fine , as well as the harness!
I like this video is a much Better job; than the video from Etrailer . but is only a 4 pin i like to know how to install a 7 pin. the audi q5 have a connector under the dash board for a Brake controller any advice ;plz .head me up
Bro....if the battery was a snake you'd be bit